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With temperatures on the rise and an increasing number of outdoor sports screenings, beer festivals, and gigs filling up your social calendar, it’s time to bring out that classic summer staple – the shorts. But since when did shorts become the ultimate summer piece? It wasn’t until after World War II that shorts started to emerge. Even then, they were still considered to be a boyish garment. Shorts became popular with (as you might expect) particular sports or recreational activities. They were often associated with tennis players, but only during the game.
So now comes the important question, what goes with men’s red shorts and how can you make the combinations work? Well, we may just have the answer.
What Colours Go With Red?
Before we dive into the types of clothes to wear and how to wear them, we should look at the sort of colors that match red. Now, red is not the most versatile color in the spectrum, and we tend to keep items such as trousers and shorts firmly in the neutral category. Neutrals are generally the safe option because they match every color. But it is summer and you want to be more daring, so what goes with red?
Red is striking, bold color and surprisingly, it does match a lot of colors if you know the rules. White, delicate neutrals such as beige and pale blue work really well with red however, other pale or pastel colors such as pale pink or pale purple look washed out and don’t work very well. Darker colors such as charcoal and black complement red too. It’s a good idea to avoid red and green. Red and green may look nice on the Christmas tree or as traffic lights but it won’t do your style reputation any good! Finding the right red shorts outfit comes to finding the perfect pair of red shorts. Here is how you can get both comfort and style.
How To Wear Red
Being one of the three main primary colors, red easily stands out, so when you think about what color goes with your red shorts, first think about how ‘red’ they are. Like all colors, there are various shades, tones, and tints of red, so knowing what works and what doesn’t is the key to pulling off red shorts for men.
Red Shorts
If your shorts are in its pure hue or what’s commonly known as ‘Chicago Bulls’ red, then it’s best to stick to white or a light blue. The shorts are bright enough without adding another bold color unless you want everyone’s eyes to bleed! White and light blue will soften the look of red shorts.
If the shorts are a more washed-out shade or dusty type of red, then you just might get a bold color to work if you really want to embrace the summer theme. A bright blue top can work here, providing there are no bold prints or complex designs on it.
Types Of Shorts
It’s also a good idea to consider the type of shorts as well as their shade or tone or red. There are in fact at least five different types of shorts:
- Chino shorts
- Pattern shorts
- Formal shorts
- Denim shorts
- Sweat shorts
When it comes to how to wear red shorts however, we should happily dismiss patterned shorts otherwise it will be difficult to find anything that matches. Even though shorts are casual wear, you need to make sure they’re suitable for the event or activity you’re planning to attend. For example, formal shorts won’t do for the beach, and denim wouldn’t be appropriate at a more formal occasion such as a garden party.
What To Wear With Red Shorts?
As we’ve previously mentioned, red is not the most versatile color so you have to be careful with your choices. If you get the color right, you can wear anything from a buttoned-up Oxford shirt to a loose t-shirt. Polo shirts work well with shorts too, especially those in darker colors. So let’s have a look at some outfit ideas.
Men’s Red Short Outfits
So, what matches red shorts? If you’re out and about for a leisurely walk in the park or on the beach, then it’s best to stick to a pair of chino shorts and team them up with a short-sleeve shirt or a polo shirt. A white Oxford shirt would work really well too if you want a more formal look when you’re strolling around in a nice park. Tuck it in or leave it out and open the top buttons for a cool look. A light-colored shirt will also complete the look if you are after something more formal.
Red dress shorts will also go really well with a shirt and blazer. So for those cooler evenings, you can always wear a white buttoned-up Oxford shirt and pair it with a grey blazer. Leather drivers will give you a more sophisticated look. Particularly black ones.
What Shoes Match Red Shorts?
So we’ve looked at red shorts and the kinds of tops that match them. But what about shoes? We briefly touched upon shoes just now, but let’s have a look at them in more detail. Again, it all depends on the type of shorts. Usually, red jean shorts can look amazing for date night, but you will also enjoy a pop of color to your OOTD.
Cargo Shorts
Most shoes will match the ever-versatile chino shorts. Boat shoes work especially well and are great in almost any summer-weather scenario. Brown or black will suit but you could experiment with navy blue or a forest green color. If you want a smarter or more formal look, then you can’t go wrong with a pair of drivers or loafers. For the beach or by the pool, espadrilles, sandals or flip flops will suit your chino shorts really well. These will also look good with the right hoodie.
Denim Shorts
What if your shorts are denim? Denim has an urban, street style vibe to them so footwear that’s a little bit sporty will work really well. Plimsolls and canvas trainers (especially Vans) are the easiest options here. Go for a clean white trainer as this will keep the red shorts looking smart casual. You can also throw on a funky sweater along with white sneakers to make this look work.
Formal Shorts
For those smart-casual events like a garden party or perhaps a wedding reception, your chino red shorts should be teamed up with a pair of formal (ish) shoes. Classic leather sandals in navy, brown, or tan are just the ticket here. If you prefer something a slight bit less summary, a pair of chic loafers or boat shoes will be perfect. These will give your outfit a sharp, refined, smart casual look.
What To Avoid
As we’ve already established, you need to be careful about what colors you wear with your red shorts. However, if you are feeling brave there are a few colors and bold statements you could make. Play around with other tones of reds or blues as this could liven up the outfit perfect for the summer.
Your Quick Guide To Red Shorts
- Red Shorts should be worn when it’s hot and sunny; at the beach, park, and outdoor festivals.
- The shorts could be worn to a formal event such as race or a summer wedding.
- Make your red shorts the centerpiece of your outfit and work around it.
- Create soft and sharp contrasts with your outfits to make them effective.
- Complete the look with a good pair of loafers, driving shoes, or trainers.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Who says that bright yellow tanks can’t look good?
On That Note
There you have it, a complete guide to red shorts in all kinds of shades, tones, and tints and how you can rock them. Are you ready for your bike shorts? Hopefully, now you can choose what to wear with your red shorts with ease and confidence. Remember, shorts are a vital summer piece and if they’re worn appropriately, they will give you that extra wow factor.
